Israel to call up 60,000 reservists ahead of Gaza City invasion
Israel is preparing for a major military operation in Gaza City. An Israeli military official confirmed on Wednesday that around 60,000 reservists will be called up in the coming days, though most of the troops on the ground will be active-duty soldiers. The reservists are expected to report for duty in September.
This move comes as Israel weighs Hamas’ response to a proposal for a 60-day ceasefire and the release of half of the hostages still held in Gaza. Israeli leaders maintain that all captives must be freed for the war to end.
Growing International Concerns
The planned Gaza City offensive has sparked strong reactions worldwide:
- Jordan accused Israel of “killing all prospects” for regional peace by expanding settlements and escalating military action.
- France’s President Emmanuel Macron warned that the offensive would be “a complete disaster for both peoples” and could drag the region into permanent conflict.
- Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese responded diplomatically after being criticized by Benjamin Netanyahu for recognizing a Palestinian state, saying he treats all leaders with respect.
Meanwhile, a new Reuters/Ipsos poll shows that 58% of Americans believe every UN member state should recognize Palestine, while 33% oppose the idea.
Settlement Approval Sparks Anger
Israel has approved a new settlement project in the West Bank’s E1 area, which critics say undermines hopes for a two-state solution. The Palestinian Authority condemned the decision, warning it will further fragment Palestinian lands into disconnected “cantons.”
Humanitarian Aid and Crisis in Gaza
International aid groups say they are still struggling to deliver shelter materials into Gaza, despite Israeli claims that restrictions have been lifted. The delays, they warn, could cost more Palestinian lives.
On Wednesday, around 154 pallets of aid—including food supplies—were airdropped into Gaza by aircraft from Jordan, the UAE, Germany, the Netherlands, France, Singapore, and Indonesia.
Other Key Developments
- Germany has charged a Russian national accused of planning an attack on Israel’s embassy in Berlin and attempting to join ISIS.
- The U.S. imposed sanctions on judges and prosecutors at the International Criminal Court over cases targeting Israeli leaders.
- Iran reported a major fire near Tabriz airport, with efforts ongoing to control the blaze.
- Syria’s foreign minister secretly met Israel’s Ron Dermer in Paris to discuss regional security arrangements.
What’s Next?
With Israel set to mobilize tens of thousands of reservists, pressure is mounting on all sides. While talks of a ceasefire continue, expanding settlements and a looming Gaza City offensive risk pushing the conflict further away from peace.
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